Research Technician I – del Marmol Lab Full-time

The lab of Dr. Josefina del Mármol, , at Harvard Medical School studies the molecular basis of sensory transduction, using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), electrophysiology, calcium imaging, computational modeling, and behavioral experiments in insects, to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that allow animals to sense the world. For more information about the lab and their work, please visit

About the Research Technician I role:

The lab is seeking a Research Technician I to hold an integral role within the team working on research projects, providing general scientific support to senior members of the lab team, and helping with some critical lab operations tasks. The successful candidate for this position is a highly organized, self-motivated professional who has impeccable follow-through, outstanding communication skills, and a strong proactive approach. This is an opportunity to have a tremendous impact working with a small, passionate lab team that is part of a community of creative scholars, talented scientists, and dedicated staff focused on advancing research.

What we provide:

• Partnering with an investigator that has a deep and demonstrated commitment to inclusion and mentorship.
• Opportunities to gain hands-on experience with advanced techniques, resources, and equipment utilized in structural, functional, behavioral, and computational research.
• Opportunities for multidisciplinary professional development and growth through the execution of research projects.
• Chances to collaborate with lab members who provide invaluable guidance and connect with renowned members of the science community through conferences, seminars, and social events

What you’ll do:

• Rearing insect colonies to help perform behavioral assays.
• Assisting in the maintenance, growth, and transfections of mammalian and insect cell cultures.
• Preparing stocks of shared consumables (complete media, agar plates, frozen cell lines, etc.).
• Joining ongoing research projects in accordance with your career interests and skills.
• Managing the requests, orders, shipping/receiving, and inventory of lab supplies and insect lines.
• Coordinating EH&S safety standards with the department and the university (lab inspections, safety training, SOPs).
• Serving as point of contact for lab inspections and facilities (fire, emergency situations, power/water shutdowns, biosafety inspections, etc.)

What you bring:

• A bachelor’s degree in a scientific field is required.
• Some previous experience working in a research laboratory is required.
• Knowledge of foundational molecular biology and biochemistry techniques is preferred.
• Strong sense of self-motivation, curiosity, trustworthiness, and ability to work in a diverse environment with people from a wide variety of backgrounds.
• Passion for efficiency, operational excellence, and process improvement.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and high attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Knowledge of electronic notebooks, Dropbox, Google Suite, and MS Office software.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis. #LI-JH1

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our site to learn more.

Compensation Range
$18.40 (minimum) – $23.03 (midpoint) – $29.93 (maximum)

Pay Type:
Hourly

HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate’s education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

We use to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Tagged as: Life Sciences